City of Gary Mayor Eddie Melton and Lake County Commissioner Kyle Allen Announce Major Ridge Road Resurfacing and Infrastructure Improvements

‍GARY, IND. — The City of Gary, in partnership with Lake County Commissioner Kyle Allen and Milestone Contractors L.P., is excited to announce Phase 1 resurfacing efforts along Ridge Road, one of the city’s most prominent and heavily traveled corridors. Crucially, the majority of the funding for this project has been provided by Commissioner Allen, whose financial commitment is driving these essential infrastructure upgrades to enhance transportation, improve roadway safety, and strengthen connectivity throughout the community.

“These improvements along Ridge Road represent another important investment in Gary’s infrastructure and transportation network,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “By partnering with Commissioner Allen, Lake County, and Milestone Contractors, we are continuing the work of improving our roadways, enhancing safety, and creating a better experience for residents, businesses, and visitors traveling through our city.”

Beginning Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Milestone Contractors L.P. will begin milling operations on Ridge Road from Colfax Street to Whitcomb Street as part of the Phase 1 resurfacing project. The total cost of the county-led project is $1.6 million, with the primary funding secured directly by Commissioner Allen. Phase 2 resurfacing efforts are scheduled to begin next year and will extend from Whitcomb Street to Hatcher Boulevard.

“Ridge Road is a critical corridor that connects several communities across Lake County and Illinois,” said Lake County Commissioner Kyle Allen. “By committing the primary funding to make these upgrades a reality, we are ensuring travel is safer, smoother, and more efficient for the thousands of residents and businesses that rely on this roadway every day. This significant financial investment reflects our continued commitment to infrastructure, economic growth, and public safety throughout the region.”

In addition to the Commissioner-backed county project, the City of Gary will begin milling and paving Ridge Road from Hatcher Boulevard to Harrison Street. This portion of the roadway improvement project is scheduled to begin in mid-June and comes at a total cost of $393,951.63.

The City of Gary has also contracted with Midwestern Electric to complete traffic signal repairs and install new stop signs along Ridge Road from Hatcher Boulevard to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. These traffic intersection improvements are intended to improve traffic flow and increase safety for motorists and pedestrians traveling throughout the corridor. The total cost for the traffic signal and stop sign improvements is $166,680.

Combined, the City of Gary’s roadway and traffic improvement investments total $560,631.63.

Motorists are encouraged to expect temporary lane closures, delays, and construction activity throughout the duration of the project. Residents are advised to use caution when traveling through work zones and follow all posted signage.

Additional updates regarding construction schedules and traffic impacts will be shared as the project progresses.